Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Thursday, said that the Agnipath scheme was a historical step towards strengthening the country’s defence power, allaying apprehensions of youths protesting against the implementation of the scheme.
“This scheme will prepare youths for the service of the country and society. The recruits – Agniveers -- will be an invaluable asset for the country,” he said.
The chief minister assured the youth that the state government would give preference to Agniveers in UP Police and other services of state government.
He appealed to the youths not to be misled, saying the recruitment in Agnipath scheme will give youth a new dimension to use their talent.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Central government is committed to the development of youths’ power and their bright future. Agnipath is an attractive scheme of recruitment in armed forces. The recruited Agniveers will contribute positively in the making of the nation and they will obtain military skill and experience by working as Agniveers and the scheme will also enhance their leadership qualities, fitness, courage and discipline,” he said.
Meanwhile, the UP Police have made ample arrangements to contain the protest by youths across the state. The government ordered the district administration officials to counsel the youths protesting against the Agnipath scheme by putting the reality before them and not allowing them to disturb peace.
The police have been asked to remain on vigil round the clock and conduct foot patrolling in their respective areas. The police officials have also been asked to deploy paramilitary forces for conducting flag marches. The senior officials have been asked to visit the sensitive places and ensure peace and order of law there while ensuring proper police deployment.
Earlier, a meeting through video conference was held at Yojana Bhawan here on Thursday and it was jointly addressed by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Awanish Awasthi and UP DGP DS Chauhan.
The meeting reviewed efforts made by officials for compliance with the chief minister’s order. The officials were warned of strict action in case any laxity was found in implementing the chief minister’s order.
The officials were asked to deal strictly with any unpleasant incident, ensure foot patrolling and flag marches to instill a sense of confidence among the people, deploy senior officials at sensitive places and monitoring of sensitive places by drones, CCTVs and video cameras. The officials were asked to ensure peace and maintain law and order under any circumstances.